Description
This slow cooker refried beans recipe offers a flavorful, hands-off way to prepare creamy and delicious beans perfect for any occasion. Using dried pinto beans simmered overnight with aromatic spices and optional smoky add-ins, the result is a hearty, comforting side dish ideal for football season, holidays, or everyday meals. Customize with your favorite toppings for an authentic taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. Dried Pinto Beans (or Kidney Beans, Black Beans)
- 1 Onion, Peeled And Shredded
- 4 cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 tbsp. Ground Cumin
- 2 tsp. Sea Salt
- 1/2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
- 7 cups Water
Optional Add-ins
- Ham Bone Or Bacon Strips
Seasoning
- Salt And Pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Cheese
- Chopped Onions
- Sour Cream
- Fresh Cilantro
- Jalapeños
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried pinto beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. No soaking is required, but rinsing ensures clean beans ready for slow cooking.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the rinsed beans into your slow cooker. Add the shredded onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and water. If desired, include optional add-ins like a ham bone or bacon strips for extra flavor.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on the low setting for approximately 12 hours. This slow cooking process allows the beans to soften and absorb the flavors deeply, creating a rich texture similar to traditional refried beans.
- Mash the Beans: Once the beans are soft and fully cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the beans to your preferred consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste, and if the mixture is too thick, add a little cooking water or broth to loosen it.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the refried beans to a serving dish and top with your favorite optional toppings such as cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños. Serve warm as a delicious side or a filling for tacos and burritos.
Notes
- This recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a flavorful side with minimal hands-on time.
- Adding a ham bone or bacon strips imparts a smoky depth but can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
- Refried beans made in a slow cooker have a creamier texture compared to stovetop methods.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
